Best Travel Months to Visit Uganda for Gorillas & Safari
Remember, all our itineraries are totally flexible and can be changed to suit you.
Why Go On Uganda Gorilla Trekking Tours & Safaris
Looking for the best Uganda Tours? If your dream is mountain gorilla trekking, Uganda is the place to go. Rwanda is currently the only other country in which these gentle giants can be encountered on a trek, and Ugandan permits are roughly half the price charged over the border. Apart from gorilla trekking trips in Uganda, there are lots of other things to do in Uganda. The country is home to many primates and Kibale National Park offers amazing chimpanzee trekking and monkey viewing. Kidepo Valley, Queen Elizabeth and Murchison Falls National Parks are great for game viewing drives in a savannah environment with plenty of lion, buffalo and elephant, as well as a range of antelope species. The country is particularly scenic and has a lot to offer to people with a keen interest in natural history and those who enjoy active holidays and luxury Uganda safari lodges & camps.
When Is The Best Time To Visit Uganda For Safari?
For the record, Uganda an underrated African safari destination with plenty of wildlife to showcase, and apart from its popular gorilla trekking safaris, there’s still so much that you can add on to your list of things to do in Uganda. Discover some of the best months for visiting Uganda and at the same time understand the different monthly safari seasons in Uganda as you plan ahead of time. This is a lovely country to visit most times of the year, and we can see you’re one step ahead to planning your vacation to Uganda – but when is the best time to visit Uganda, you ask? Let’s give you a clue of what to expect, including Uganda’s climate guide to enable you successfully plan your African trip. Whatever draws you, plan the perfect time for your visit with this guide to Uganda’s safari seasons and events.
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Month-By-Month Guide On When To Go To Uganda
In this guide, we explain further about the best time of the year to visit Uganda for safari by month, and apart from sharing with you insights to Uganda’s best safari months, our listed Uganda’s climate guide is designed to assist you plan your ultimate safaris to Uganda.
Overall Best Time to Visit Uganda
Travelling to Uganda from June to August (Dry Season) – Best time for gorilla trekking due to drier months and best time for wildlife game viewing
Travelling to Uganda from December to February (Dry Season) – Best time to see gorillas due to drier months and best time for wildlife game viewing
Travelling to Uganda from March, April and May – Peak wet season
Best Weather – June to July and January to February
Visiting Uganda In January
Travelling for Uganda safari in January?
January in Uganda is considered one of the hottest months of the year with high temperatures ranging from 90ºF (32ºC) in Gulu to 75ºF (24ºC) in Kabale, while mornings and evenings across the country are cool. January the dry season therefore expect the days to be warm and sunny, though you’ll want to pack a raincoat for visits around the Volcanoes National Park.
Visiting Uganda in January, the conditions are perfect for gorilla trekking in Bwindi Impenetrable National Park, despite the hot temperatures, the altitude takes the edge off the heat. This makes it one of the best month to visit Uganda, in our belief.
Visiting Uganda In February
Travelling for Uganda safari in February?
Uganda in February is the hottest and driest month with average temperatures at around 25 °C, making it an ideal time for gorilla trekking in Uganda in the lush jungle. You can stick to Kibale, Queen Elizabeth, and Bwindi Imprenable Forest National Parks to avoid the heat of the north. Just be aware that during the late February, the more likely you are to run into rain, especially near Volcanoes National Park.
The reduction in rainfall brings the wildlife to the remaining watering holes, meaning February offers some of the best game viewing in Uganda.
Visiting Uganda In March
Travelling for Uganda safari in March?
Uganda in March marks the start of the long rainy season in southern Uganda, while it’s still dry in northern Uganda. This is probably not the best time of year to visit. That said, there is still a slight opportunity to spot the animals in the parks giving birth to their young and birdwatchers will be treated to an array of colorful, winged beauties.
Visiting Uganda In April
Travelling for Uganda safari in April?
Uganda in April is by far considered the wettest month of the year. Many roads may be closed, and some accommodations, due to the consistent downpour, the parks are far quieter. However, this is a great time to take advantage of low discounted rates for hotels, lodges, Uganda safari tours, and even on gorilla trekking permits – bearing in mind it will be a wet-weather journey.
Visiting Uganda In May
Travelling for Uganda safari in May?
Uganda in May sees extended periods of heavy downpours, followed by brief moments of soothing sunshine, it’s just another rainy month across the country, although there isn’t quite as much rainfall as April.
Despite the weather in Uganda during this period, this can be a lovely time to explore the surrounding areas like Murchison Falls National Park where rainfall will be minimal, and average temperatures hover around 88ºF (31ºC), making it a great place to visit if you want to avoid getting wet. Toward the end of the month, precipitation decreases, and even in Mgahinga National Park, you can enjoy sunny days.
Visiting Uganda In June
Travelling for Uganda safari in June?
Uganda in June marks the start of the long dry season which is characterised by bright-blue skies, emerald green landscapes, and increasingly great wildlife viewing opportunities.
As June marks the driest months of the year in the south of Uganda, it’s the rainy season in the north of the country it’s one of the best times to visit Uganda and it is the start of the peak season for luxury Uganda safaris.
When it comes to booking a gorilla trek in Uganda, we advise that you book well in advance, especially for permits, to avoid any unnecessary last minute hassles.
Visiting Uganda In July
Travelling for Uganda safari in July?
Uganda in July is characterized by warm temperatures and minimal rainfall meaning all activities are possible, thanks to the favorable weather conditions, hiking routes accessible clear and easier to navigate, safari lodges remain open, with an average day time temperatures at around 25 degrees Celsius.
Consider July as one of the best months for gorilla trekking tours and safaris in Uganda. In parks such as Queen Elizabeth National Park, the wildlife often tend to gather around water sources, making them much easier to spot.
Visiting Uganda In August
Travelling for Uganda safari in August?
Uganda in August, the country’s parks are at their best at this time of year, thanks to its favorable warm temperatures of 25 degrees Celsius and lack of precipitation.
Safaris in Queen Elizabeth National Park are excellent in August, with four of the ‘Big Five’ most active in this month.
When visiting Uganda in August is another excellent month, anyone in search of fantastic game viewing will have the chance to not only see elephants and lions, they may even encounter the elusive leopard. A great time for gorilla tracking, and there’s superb wildlife viewing in national parks with dry vegetation.
Visiting Uganda In September
Travelling for Uganda safari in September?
Uganda in September is the start of the short rainy season in Uganda. Slightly less favorable weather conditions, expect warm days and the occasional heavy rainfall meaning the visitor numbers and safari prices are lower.
It’s not an ideal month to visit national parks or go gorilla trekking, but if you’re the type of traveler willing to put up with heavy thundershowers, challenging roads and difficult hiking trails to find gorillas, then you’ll be able to save on lodging costs with low season rates, and you may be able to get discounted gorilla trekking permits.
You will certainly save on lodging and other travel costs.
Visiting Uganda In October
Travelling for Uganda safari in October?
Uganda in October marks the start of the short rainy season, the sunny days are broken up by heavy rainfall downpours, and it’s not a busy month when visiting Uganda. Prices are reasonable and this is a good time of year for specials on gorilla trekking permits. Most of the game parks are still accessible at this time, but the rainfall can be a little unpredictable.
Visiting Uganda In November
Travelling for Uganda safari in November?
Uganda in November is considered a wet season, and the month sees dry plains gradually turning vibrant green in the national parks as heavy rain showers continue across the landscape but there are fewer visitors this month because of less than ideal weather conditions. It is a good time to see migratory birds. You can expect some rainfall during December, but wildlife spotting opportunities are good.
Visiting Uganda In December
Travelling for Uganda safari in December?
Uganda in December ushers the end of the wet season when rainfall eases off, bringing in plenty of sunshine and warm to hot temperatures – conditions across the country are perfect, and it’s a great month to visit Uganda.
The ground starts to dry out, making for excellent conditions for gorilla trekking and chimpanzee trekking. In December, the Gorillas usually move to higher grounds, meaning the treks are usually longer.
Although you may still want to carry your rain clothes as you may encounter a few wet days toward the beginning of the month, especially in the south near Bwindi Impenetrable National Park.
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Ready to Start Planning Your Visit to Uganda?
Not yet close to finding your best time to travel to Uganda? Worry not, chat with someone who’s been there. Get in touch with one of our African safari experts to help tailor-make a trip that’s right for you.
Discover Kenya Safaris
When it comes to choosing the best places for an African safari, it’s difficult to beat a safari to Kenya’s national parks and conservancies. Kenya delivers some of the best African safaris so far, from unforgettable African family safaris with child-friendly safari lodges to exclusive hide-outs for couples and honeymoon trips, there’s not much that beats a Kenya safari.
9 Days | 8 Nights
Frequently Asked Uganda Safari Holiday Questions
Q. Passport, Visa & Other Kenya Entry Requirements
As for the documentations you need for your holiday in Kenya, keep in mind entry requirements can change, so please contact your local Kenyan embassy or high commission to verify that the following information below is up to date.
-A passport is required for all foreign visitors and must be valid for at least six months.
-No visa is required. Instead, all visitors must apply for an Electronic Travel Authorisation (eTA).
-Visitors must apply in advance for the eTA on www.etakenya.go.ke.
-The standard processing time is three days, but you can apply up to three months prior to travel and early application is recommended.
-When arriving from a yellow-fever-infected country in Africa or the Americas, a yellow-fever vaccination certificate is required.
-For more information we strongly direct checking the website of your local Kenyan embassy/high commission or the government travel advisories below:
Australia – www.smartraveller.gov.au
Canada – travel.gc.ca
EU Member States – ec.europa.eu
Ireland – www.ireland.ie
New Zealand – www.safetravel.govt.nz
United Kingdom – www.gov.uk
United States – travel.state.gov
Q. How much does a safari in Kenya cost?
The cost for a Kenya safari starts from USD $250 to USD $2,500 per person per day depending on your level of safari; either travelling on a mid-range comfort safari or a luxury Kenya safari. Talk to one of our African travel experts to ensure the best Kenya safari experience in line with your time and budget. Your final Kenya safari cost depends on the following factors:
– Time of year you’re travelling; low and high season prices.
– Your choice of luxury safari lodges and tented safari camps.
– Duration of your stay in Kenya.
– Where you are visiting and in what means, you have the option to choose between fly-in Kenya safaris or by road, using a comfy 4 X 4 Land Cruiser jeep with open rooftop. The cost for the two greatly differ.
– Your choice of additional safari activities which range from inclusive wildlife activities to optional activities like hot air balloon rides and visits to the Masai villages for cultural interactions.
Q. What medication do I need for Kenya safari?
About medicine on your trip to Kenya, we recommend anti-malarial medication no matter what time of year you plan on visiting Kenya for safari. Kindly consult with your doctor at home for advice on the right choice of prophylaxis for your body well in advance of your departure date. Additionally, if you live in a yellow fever region or plan to travel through a region where it is endemic during your stay, you will need a yellow fever vaccination and certificate.
Q. Where to stay on safari in Kenya
With hundreds of excellent luxury safari lodges and tented safari camps, you will be spoilt with lots of choices to pick from during your stay. But worry not, we will help you select the best lodges to stay in during your trip.
Additionally, when we talk about safari standards, the service level is high, with the ability to deliver the best luxury African safaris, suitable accommodations from lavish safari lodges to modern day boutique hotels and classic tented safari camps.
We shall share our list of top luxury accommodation options in Kenya – from eco-friendly architecture to the best luxury tented camps with a front-row seat to experience African wildlife mostly near game viewing hot spots like the Mara River where the Wildebeest Migration safari takes place. Our list of the best Kenya safari lodges also covers mid-range camps which can come in handy If you are travelling on budget.
Q. Where are the places to visit in Kenya?
When you think of Africa, Kenya is most likely the image you have in mind. Therefore, some of the top 10 best places to visit in Kenya, include the following destinations;
- Masai Mara: Catch the Wildebeest Migration & all year-round excellent game-viewing.
- Lamu Archipelago: Experience a classic barefoot luxury beach experience.
- Nairobi City: Feed the giraffes and visit the baby elephant’s shelter.
- Mombasa & Kenya Beaches: Explore coastal family resorts & luxury lodges, good with family trips to Kenya.
- Amboseli National Park: Photography safari destination, watch the big tusked elephants and the best views of Mt Kilimanjaro.
- Ol Pejeta Conservancy in Laikipia: Kenya’s hidden gem; visit the chimpanzee sanctuary, feed and touch the blind rhino and spend your nights in some of the top luxury lodges.
- Mount Kenya: for the mountain trekking enthusiasts, go on a 5 days trekking tour at Mount Kenya (the second tallest mountain in Africa after Mount Kilimanjaro in Tanzania)
- Lake Nakuru: Excellent game viewing, from rhino’s, leopards, tree climbing lions, endangered giraffes to birdlife, Lake Nakuru has it all.
- Shaba and Samburu: Kenya’s hidden gem, more than a wilderness where the special 5 wildlife roam; additionally, all the big 5 are here.
- Kenya South-Coast beaches.
Uganda Safari Reservations
Q. What type of clothes do I wear on Kenya safari?
Pack lightweight, comfortable, and casual clothing for a Kenyan safari, including long sleeves, pants, comfortable closed-toe shoes, a wide-brimmed hat, and layers for cooler mornings and evenings on game drives. For more details, we suggest you do your own safari packing essentials and find out what fits your interests.
Browse our safari clothing packing advice on what to pack for your African tour:
- Lightweight trousers /shorts and t-shirts remain ideal for the daytime drives.
- Lightweight jacket / fleece for the early mornings and evenings.
- Remember to also pack some warm socks and a woolly hat would be suggested for early morning and evening game drives.
- Hiking shoes
Other items we would suggest you bring along with you include:
- Sunscreen glasses & hat/cap
- Comfy Shoes / Sandals
- Flip Flops to wear during the day
- A Torch / Lamp
- Binoculars
- Phone/laptop charger
- Pack your medication, and a spare set of spectacles or contact lenses if you wear these.
Q. What is the best time to see the Masai Mara wildebeest migration in Kenya?
The best time to witness the dramatic Masai Mara wildebeest migration in Kenya is typically between mid-July through mid-September where your chances of witnessing a river crossing are generally much higher. In early October marks the end of the herd crossing the river from Kenya down into Tanzania, as thunderstorms begin in the north the herds will embark on their return journey back to the Serengeti.
Checkout our Migration safari offers.
Q. Kenya Vs Tanzania: Which Is Better for an African Safari?
Choosing between Kenya and Tanzania for an African safari depends on personal preferences, BUT Kenya is the most chosen being cost & budget friendly during both high and low seasons. Secondly, when it comes to the best places to stay in Kenya and Tanzania, both destinations offer fantastic accommodations. Thirdly in terms of Big 5 sightings, the wildebeest migration & general game viewing, both destinations are safari heavyweights. In terms of privacy and extending your safari beyond game drives, there are more private conservancies in Kenya than Tanzania which offer you plenty of activities inside the park.
Lastly, Kenya safari is the most sought-after destination for the world’s best safari experiences, evident from the large number of celebrities visiting year in year out.
Q. Will I have a private vehicle or shared game drives with other people?
We tend to enforce a maximum person per vehicle policy of 6. Meaning, although you’ll be sharing with other guests, everyone will get a side-view seat with unhindered views.
Some trips are designed in such a way that a private vehicle and guide are included for a portion of the trip, but the use of a private vehicle throughout your safari comes at an additional cost.
Africa Flying Safaris
Q. How many days do you need for an Africa safari?
The ideal duration for an East Africa safari package often ranges from 5 to 14 days, this allows you to enjoy a comfortable and a well-rounded rewarding safari experience during this African tour package. It also depends on the destinations you will visit, wildlife interests, and personal preferences.
Q. What do I do in case of an emergency?
We have a 24 hour emergency line. If anything goes south, we’re ready to assist you regardless of time or date.
Q. Are there malaria mosquito nets in Africa safari tented camps?
Many tented camps in Africa provide fitted mosquito nets in all rooms which are also insect proofed to protect you against malaria mosquito bites and other insect bites, ensuring a comfortable and safe stay.
It’s also advisable to carry insect repellent to further protect yourself especially in the outdoors during evenings.
Q. Is there Wi-Fi at the safari lodges & tented camps on safari?
Almost all Africa safari lodges and tented camp accommodations during your safari provide free Wi-Fi. You’ll find this available in all three accommodation levels – comfort or luxury accommodations.
Wi-Fi is provided in the public areas of the safari lodges/tented camps including the reception, dining areas, and lounge. It is not provided in the individual rooms/tents.
Moreover, because you will be inside a wilderness park, we still request that you come prepared with your own network data to avoid any inconveniences.
Uganda Safari Payment Methods
Q. Do you provide drinking water on safari?
East Africa is within the tropics and near the Equator, separating the northern and southern hemispheres. The tropical temperatures are relatively high on the safari route and even within the national parks/game reserves.
Because you’ll need to frequently hydrate during your safari, we ensure unlimited supplies of drinking water.
All Vulture Africa Safari vehicles are fitted with a cooler box or mini fridge with a constant supply of cool, bottled water.
We replenish our supplies of drinking water during stops along the safari route.
Here’s everything you need to know about packing for your Africa safari trip.
Q. Are mosquito nets provided in safari lodge rooms/tents?
We carefully research and choose our selection of top safari lodges and tented camps to offer the best in terms of comfort, relaxation, amenities, and atmosphere during your safari.
We fully understand the need for your protection against mosquitos and other insects.
All rooms/tents during your safari are fitted with mosquito nets or are insect-proofed to protect you against bites.
Tented camp showing bedroom with mosquito nets
You are also advised to use insect repellent to further protect yourself especially outdoors in the evenings.
Q. Is it possible to store excess luggage while on safari?
Vulture African Safaris understands that your holiday travel may be lengthy and could involve different activities during your trip. You may find the need to store some of your luggage at various times.
You can safely store your extra luggage at our Nairobi office for safekeeping until you have completed your safari.
This is a free service extended to all our safari guests.
Packing luggage for an East African safari holiday tour
Additionally, our 4×4 safari Jeeps accommodate generous luggage space in its rear luggage compartment.
Q. Do you handle requests for special dietary needs?
Kenya and Tanzania welcomes visitors from all over the world and their diverse diet preferences. These preferences may be due to religious beliefs, lifestyles, or health concerns.
The menus in all safari lodges & tented camps are continental cuisine however, vegetarian, kosher, halal, gluten-free, etc. meals are also provided.
We request you indicate your special diet needs during safari booking/confirmation.
Why Book Your Safari in Advance?
Q. Do you provide airport hotel airport transfers when we arrive and depart Nairobi?
As part of our safari tour services, Vulture African Safaris provides free pickup and return to the airport/hotel for any guests who are booked for a 3-day or more safari tour with us.
The transfers are provided even if you arrive or depart several days before or after your safari start/end.
Please let us know your arrival & departure flight details including airline codes and arrival/departure times. We will provide you with the name of your driver and telephone contact in advance of your arrival/departure.
Q. Do you book or can you recommend a Nairobi hotel for our pre or post-safari stay?
If you are arriving in Nairobi earlier than your safari starting date or are intending to stay a few days more after your safari finish, you will require a Nairobi hotel.
Our listed safari tours and advertised prices do not include your Nairobi hotel.
Nairobi has a wide range of hotels in the economy, comfort, and luxury categories suitable for your 1 night or extended stay.
As part of your safari tour, Vulture Africa Safaris will pick you up at the airport and bring you to your respective Nairobi hotel or residence. This includes most areas around Nairobi.
We suggest that you look up and book online your preferred Nairobi hotel. If you should require advice, suggestions, or booking assistance for your Nairobi hotel, we will be happy to assist.
We can make suggestions depending on your budget and what area of the city you are interested in staying.
Q. Can we purchase a local Sim card for use while in Kenya?
A Kenyan Sim card will greatly reduce your telephone roaming bills during your visit and while on safari in Kenya
1 GB of data costs an average of $5.
Safaricom, a telco provider in Kenya is the market leader with the best national coverage and better deals.
Sim cards can be purchased from official stores or approved resellers. You can purchase them at the Nairobi airport upon arrival. Cost is approximately $1 or Ksh.100
To purchase local sim cards, you are required to have a Sim-unlocked GSM-compatible phone.
Q. What are your recommended safari tipping guidelines?
Tipping in guidelines for Kenya and Tanzania safaris – although not mandatory, is expected in return for good service.
All hotels, lodges, and porterage gratuities are included in the cost of your safari – these are collectively referred to as the service charge.
You may also decide to tip individual waiters, porters, and other hotel service employees who provide exemplary service. Usually, $1 – $5 per meal or move is appropriate and appreciated.
It is, however, customary to tip your safari driver/guide at the end of the safari tour. The amount is dependent on your evaluation of the quality of the service rendered. An average of $10 per guest per day or 5-10% of your safari-only cost is suggested. However, the amount is at your discretion – you are welcome to provide additional compensation to any staffer who has provided special services. A bar gratuity of $1 is acceptable.
You may tip in Kenya shillings, USD, or in Euro at the end of your safari and preferably in an envelope.